With temperatures soaring into the 40s this week, pet owners are being reminded to check on their furry friends in the heat.

Seymour has just sweltered through it’s second heatwave of the season, with temperatures reaching 39°C on Thursday, 38.6°C on Friday, 41.7°C on Saturday, 43°C on Sunday, 41.3°C on Monday and an expected top of 29°C yesterday and 32°C today.

Seymour Veterinary Surgery veterinarian Andrew Hogan said the clinic usually saw several heat-affected animals a year.

‘‘We’ve also had deaths from heatstroke, but we haven’t had any this year, thankfully,’’ he said.

Dr Hogan said traditionally, it was older or overweight animals who felt the heat more, although younger animals were also susceptible because they have less capacity to control their body temperature.

Some animals with underlying medical issues could also be at risk, especially if they are unable to pant.

‘‘If they can’t pant, they won’t be able to keep cool,’’ Dr Hogan said.

Signs animals are suffereing from heat stroke usually include heavy panting with an open mouth, weakness, hot to touch, less responsive to their owners and surroundings, collapse, coma and even death.

Dr Hogan said owners should immediately call their vet if they notice any signs of heat-related illness.

‘‘If there is going to be any delay, hose your pet down or immerse them in cool water – a bath, sink or child’s wading pool might be handy,’’ he said.

‘‘Mild hyperthermia might be managed with cooling and medication, but severe heatstroke is a life-threatening condition requiring intensive therapy and hospitalisation.’’

Dr Hogan warned dog owners to avoid excercising in the heat of the day.

‘‘There are some enthusiastic dogs who will chase the ball as soon as you throw it, regardless of the temperature,’’ he said.

He said there were several simple steps to help avoid heat stroke in pets.